With more companies moving towards flexible work arrangements, the government is looking at ways to make remote working more accessible, and the National Information Dissemination Centres (NADI) facilities could play a key role in that.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the centres are being considered as potential hubs to facilitate Work From Home (WFH) arrangements among Malaysians, especially in areas where access to stable internet or proper workspaces may be limited.
Datuk fahmi fadzil
NADI centres to be upgraded for better use
Fahmi added that his ministry is currently exploring how NADI centres can be utilised, not just for connectivity, but also as community-driven spaces that cater to modern work needs.
“Currently, many NADI centres are already being used for online meetings by bodies and agencies such as Amanah Ikhtiar and others,” he explained.
The Communications Minister further revealed that efforts are underway to upgrade these centres, including improving internet speeds and overall facilities, to ensure they can better support remote work demands.
Beyond just providing workspace alternatives, the initiative is also expected to contribute to long-term cost savings.
WFH may help reduce daily expenses
Fahmi noted that working remotely could help reduce commuting expenses, which in turn lowers overall living costs for many Malaysians.
However, he clarified that NADI centres will continue to function as digital community hubs, not just for professionals, but also for students and individuals who may not have access to devices or the internet at home.
Push for wider NADI use
At the same time, Fahmi emphasised that collaboration between multiple agencies will be the key to making this initiative work. This includes the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), along with other relevant ministries and local authorities.
Recent data from MCMC showed positive progress, with Sarawak recording the highest number of NADI centres at 156, followed by Sabah with 132 and Johor with 101.
Looking ahead, Fahmi urged all stakeholders, especially NGOs, to actively participate in maximising the use of these facilities.
He added that with the right support and community involvement, NADI centres could evolve into more than just internet access points; they could become crucial spaces that support both digital inclusion and the future of work in Malaysia.
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Also read: “WFH doesn’t mean resting at home or going shopping” – Govt Chief Secretary Tells Civil Servants
